I entered the doors of MedMark on a Monday morning @ 5:00 am with the expectation of walking out feeling a whole lot better than when I walked in.
As told by the young lady on the phone the day before, I needed to come in sick, which of course I did, to a degree.
I was interviewed, had a physical and sat.
At about 10:30am, I was given my first dose of 20mgs. After about 20 mins, I began feeling a bit better. Then, I was given another 10mgs and went home. For the first time in months, I actually slept.
It has been near 6 years since that first day and I can honestly say that I have not used, gone through withdrawals and been able to put and keep my life on a straight and forward path thanks to the counselors, the nurses and the newer management team consisting of Kim and Linda.
Not to speak ill of the previous management, so I'll simply say that the change has been a Godsend.
Kim, Director of MedMark Fairfield is a very sweet, compassionate and open-minded leader who has opened herself up to speaking to the clients with a bright smile and a big heart. These qualities make her approachable but don't let that fool you, she is as tough as she is welcoming.
Sadly, Linda the Lead Manager at MedMark Fairfield is not one that I have spent much time with, however she did see me at a time when my councilor was out sick. The hour we spent together was made very comfortable by her, and I had actually entertained the idea of asking her to be my councilor. We talked as though we had known one another for a lifetime. Those that have her as a councilor are very blessed.
I can truly say that I hit the lottery when I was given Sara as my councilor. Early on, I found that she and I share quite a bit in our stories, which right away put me at ease. Sara is bright, knowledgeable and compassionate and right away put me at ease. Given that I have earned my way to monthly meetings, I really look forward to seeing her each time. I have had a few different councilors over time, but Sara has really given me the reasons to trust her. So important as that is, I am lucky to have that with her.
One of the huge benefits I found at MedMark was that the councilors I had seen had all gone through very similar situations as I had. It truly makes for a foundation to build on when there is that common denominator. It is easy to sit with your client and simply listen to them for an hour, but to really connect with them, making them feel as though they really matter and to build that trust and rapport.
Now, I have heard people complain about this or that at MedMark, unfortunately, in an environment such as this it is to be expected. My response, typically sharp tongued is this;
Hmmm, I don't recall getting an invitation to come join them so frankly we really can't complain. Speaking from experience, MedMark is #1 on my top 5 Methadone Clinics. lol